Margaret Cleves School of Dancing student Hailee Pearce recently added to her impressive Highland Dancing career by winning the Barrier Reef Championship 14 to 15 years.

The event was held in Townsville, Queensland and the talented 15-year-old received a blue sash, a bunch of flowers and her name engraved on the perpetual trophy for her major achievement.

Margaret Cleves School of Dancing principal Margaret Reichelt said strong competition came from competitors from New South Wales, Victoria, Tasmania and Queensland.

“It’s always a thrill when they win a championship because an awful lot of hard work goes into preparing for these things,” Mrs Reichelt said.

“And of course with COVID, we have had two years out of competitive Highland Dancing, there has not been much happening at all, but now this year we’re all back at it.

“I was really thrilled for Hailee for her to win, it’s a big one to win so it’s lovely.

“She has done very well so I am pleased with the result.”

Hailee has been dancing with Margaret Cleves School of Dancing for 11 years and Mrs Reichelt said she had won many championships over the years.

Mrs Reichelt said her students worked very hard to prepare for and win championships.

Hailee has a busy couple of weeks ahead as she will be sitting for her Advanced certificate in Highland Dancing along with competing in the State Championships, which will be held in Adelaide on September 17.